The Ballito Lifestyle Boom

Besides the year-round subtropical climate and safe, well-kept Blue Flag beaches, Ballito is famed for its beautiful sugar cane scenery and surfing. In recent years, the area has evolved from a luxury holiday destination to an exclusive residential haven.

A notable surge in property development and sales has made KZN’s North Coast one of the most sought-after places to live in South Africa. Ballito will also be home to the first Club Med resort in the country. The all-inclusive resort is set to contribute considerably to the region, providing job opportunities and sustainable growth.

Young Families

One of the significant factors contributing to the Ballito development boom was the desirable infrastructure and amenities, attracting both young families and retirees. Rainmaker Marketing recently released a property market report stating that in 2023 alone, 36% of Ballito buyers were between the ages of 36 and 49. Approximately 102 adults are moving into the greater North Coast area each month, which is equivalent to 41 families. 

Semigration

Since 2019, 77% of people moving to the North Coast have been relocating from other parts of KwaZulu-Natal. The region has also witnessed a steady increase in residents from other provinces, like Gauteng and the Western Cape. While its proximity to Durban is valuable, Ballito attracts many employed Durbanites who prefer the daily commute from a plush coastal community over chaotic city living. 

Ballito Lifestyle

The most notable factor in Ballito’s lifestyle surge is the upscale, unhurried way of life that most locals enjoy daily. Lifestyle centres, retail spaces, and restaurants have all been designed with residents in mind and serve as extensions of their everyday lives. 

Blue-flag beaches like Willard Beach and Thompson's Bay are safe and clean, while Ballito’s ample sports facilities and public spaces make the area appealing to those who want to pursue an active lifestyle. The 4km promenade makes for a beautiful running route, and with a large pod of dolphins regularly visiting this stretch of coast, countless South Africans are turning their attention to this coveted residential community. 

There has been a surge in demand for schooling, which is a good indicator of the stimulative long-term growth that is still to happen. Schools like Umhlali Preparatory School are busting at the seams, while private schools in Ballito, like Reddam House and Ashton International School, are just some of the elite institutions that parents can choose from. In addition to clean and safe environments in Ballito, the efficient management of water and urban precincts are South African rarities that add to the town's attractiveness. 

Ballito Property

As a holiday destination turned permanent residential location, Ballito’s property market caters to many. In the last decade, many high-end resorts and hotels have accommodated tourists and vacationers. But as Ballito is steadily transforming into a chic residential hub, investors are developing the housing infrastructure accordingly.

As opposed to Durban, 44.6% of Ballito’s 8,812 homes are located in estates, and 60.3% of Ballito's homes are sectional title properties. Some of the largest estates include Zimbali, an exclusive coastal estate, and eco-estate Simbithi. The Dolphin Coast property market is at an all-time high, and experts suggest that houses and apartments for sale in Ballito will continue to garner significant interest.

In the same marketing report, Brenda Padayachee, Head of Market Research at Rainmaker Marketing, notes that while one-third of 2023 buyers were aged between 36 and 49, 45% of Ballito’s latest property owners are over 50. Many Ballito lifestyle estates and gated property developments are taking great care to accommodate retirees by building retirement villages that embody the Ballito lifestyle, albeit for a slightly older demographic.

Ballito Amenities 

• King Shaka International Airport

King Shaka International Airport has to be one of the biggest drawcards that has added to Ballito’s appeal. The airport is now Durban's primary international airport, only 30km from Ballito. 

• Ballito Junction Mall

This ​​80,000 square meter shopping centre sits at the heart of the Dolphin Coast and provides various exclusive shopping experiences, high-end restaurants, banks, and entertainment. 

• Sugar Rush Park

Set amongst the farmlands of inland Ballito, the park offers families and kids of all ages a fun-filled day of adventure. Enjoy tree trails, crafts, animal encounters, biking trails, and excellent food. 

• Golfing

No coastal destination is complete without golfing, and Ballito does not disappoint. Residents and vacationers are spoilt for choice with four world-class golf courses, including Zimbali Country Club and Umhlali Country Club. 

• Nature Reserves

Visit nearby nature reserves like Holla Trails or Umhlali Nature Reserve for hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. These reserves offer opportunities to explore the region's natural beauty and add to the enviable quality of life on the Dolphin Coast.